Effects of rhythmic eye movements during a virtual reality exposure paradigm for spider ‐phobic patients

ConclusionsContrary to our expectation, the implementation of rhythmic eye movements during virtual exposure did not enhance the effectiveness of the treatment. However, the eye movement group did show a significantly lower heart rate during exposure compared with the control group which might indicate a less stressful treatment.Practitioner points One-session Virtual Reality Exposure Therapy reduced fear of spiders effectively. Performing rhythmic eye movements during exposure did not enhance therapy effects. Rhythmic eye movements during exposure resulted in lower heart rate than standard exposure.
Source: Psychology and Psychotherapy: Theory, Research and Practice - Category: Psychiatry & Psychology Authors: Tags: Original Article Source Type: research